Forest and Stream, October 19, 1876

WHALES IN VIRGINIA.

Sea -- Whales

Last week a large black whale grounded on Occohannock bar, Northampton county, Va., about 40 miles from the mouth of the Chesapeake, and was killed next day. The leviathan grounded about 7 a. m. in six feet of water, where he remained all day, and crowds of people came from all sections to get a look at the unusual visitor. The whale at intervals spouted up the water and made great exertions to get off, but each succeeding effort sent it further into shallow water. On Monday it was attacked with axes, guns and harpoons, and killed, when lines were attached to the carcass, which was taken ashore at high tide. The whale was 37 1-2 feet long, weight about two tons, length of tail, six feet; mouth, three feet. An old bruise on its back was believed to have been received by striking the bottom of a vessel.